The bill H.411 aims to enhance public safety in Vermont by amending laws related to extradition, sentencing, and bail procedures. Key provisions include extending the time for administering extradition warrants from 30 to 120 days, allowing law enforcement to deliver individuals who violate release terms in another state without a Governor's warrant, and prohibiting courts from suspending sentences for high-risk sex offenders who fail to comply with registry requirements. The bill also restricts alternative sentences for repeat offenders unless compelling reasons are documented and prohibits sentence reductions for individuals with prior convictions for serious crimes. Additionally, it redefines recidivism, increases the number of serious offenses processed in the Criminal Division for juveniles, and repeals the Raise the Age initiative for 19-year-olds.

Furthermore, the bill introduces significant changes to the sealing and expungement of criminal history records, replacing the term "expungement" with "sealing" and establishing specific criteria for individuals to petition the court for sealing their records. It clarifies the conditions under which sealing may occur, such as the completion of sentences and payment of restitution, while ensuring that sealed records are treated as if the individual were never arrested or convicted. The bill also includes provisions for victims' rights, a special fund for administrative costs, and civil penalties for unauthorized disclosure of sealed information. Overall, H.411 seeks to strengthen the legal framework surrounding criminal justice in Vermont, focusing on accountability, public safety, and the rehabilitation of youthful offenders.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-4955, 13-4967, 13-5043, 13-5411d, 13-7031, 13-7042, 13-7575, 13-7576, 13-230, 13-7041, 23-2303, 28-125(b), 28-125, 33-5201, 33-5203, 33-5204, 33-5280, 33-5281, 33-5282, 33-5283, 33-5284, 33-5285, 33-5286, 33-5287